This week a panel of employers and social media experts shared information about how one’s online brand/image is impacting job searches.
Employers are using the main three social media sites, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter to communicate with applicants who they are and what positions they have. Some employers are Googling applicant names, some employers only view LinkedIn profiles, but all agree that managing your online image is very important because you never know who is looking at you!
All panelists acknowledged that LinkedIn (LI) is THE site for professional networking. It’s a great place to research employers, and make connections with individuals and groups. Below is information shared and some specific suggestions from the panelists.
- LinkedIn recently has enabled Profiles to be more student-friendly – with categories more in line with college resumes.
- They have created a Student Jobs area (linkedin.com/studentjobs)
- Has offered posting of internships for free to employers.
- Students can do Advanced Job Search and isolate Internships and Entry-level jobs there.
- Have added a Skills Tool to help users find vocabulary to describe themselves.
When advising on how to make your Profile stand out, employers give the same advice as you’d find regarding resume construction, review job descriptions of interesting positions and include the same terms within your LI Summary or where you can, so Keyword searches can find you more easily.
Candidate social media activity advice:
- Research companies on LI and FB – follow them, post on FB Wall, connect with employees.
- If you search for people and find a 2nd or 3rd level connection, ask Connections-in-Common if they will introduce you so you can Link with them directly.
- When asking for introductions, don’t just use the pre-filled in text provided, add your own words to personalize your invitation.
- Join LI groups affiliated with your career fields and industries of interest, plus alma mater !
- Make sure the LI profile is Complete – photo, recommendations, etc.
It is always important to remember that online contact is no substitute for live connections with people! Attend professional associations, networking events, ask for informational interviews, etc.
Students can always receive job search assistance and LinkedIn advice from career specialists through appointments and Pop-ins. Call 651-962-6761.
